House sparrow
4 January 2010
Once extremely common in our town and cities house sparrow numbers have fallen by over 50% since the 1970s and over 70% in London. A lack of available food for young sparrows is a major factor in this decline. House sparrows are now a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.
Latin name: Passer domesticus
Population numbers: 50% decline since the 1970s (over 70% decline in London)
Where to see and when: House sparrows can be seen in parks, gardens and open spaces in our towns, villages and cities. Present throughout the year they are easiest to see in winter when they are frequent visitors to bird tables and feeders.
What’s being done: A considerable research effort has gone into trying to understand why house sparrow numbers have declined so significantly. Conservationists are working to increase the amount of insect and seed rich planting in parks and open spaces to provide additional food for young birds. Anyone can help improve the prospect for sparrows by putting out bird seed and encouraging a wide variety of flowering plants in gardens, terraces, or on balconies.
More information:
House sparrow
, RSPBHouse sparrow
, Arkive
